Jian Sword
Jian Sword
The Slicing Sword
Medieval Europe and ancient Asia are the focal points for the history of swords. In both parts of the world, weaponry, swords and armor in particular, were an essential part of life and death. However, different aspects of the swords were highlighted and developed in each of the different cultural areas. In Europe, for example, swords were meant for function first and foremost, while in Asia , they served an aesthetic purpose as well. In both parts of the world, the designers were craftsmen and scientists at once, working with the materials to develop something that would be stronger and more durable all the time. They also worked with the warriors to find out what worked best, what they needed, and what elements were not so necessary.
The first swords in medieval Europe were designed to cut and slash the opponent. Most of these were one-handed swords, freeing the other hand to hold a shield for protection. The development of more advanced armor, however, required a shift in sword design so that the weapon could get into the spaces in the armor. As a result, swords were designed more to thrust and pierce. In other words, the swords needed to be able to be aimed into the small openings of armor. To meet this end, swords became longer, thinner, and with stronger and sharper points.
In Asia , the story was quite different. The makers of swords focused more on improving what they already had. The swords did not undergo an evolutionary development to the extent that they did in Europe . Instead, they honed in on technique and began to develop style. Asian values demand a great appreciation for the creation of something, and in this appreciation comes a high standard of esthetics. Beauty is held in great esteem in Asia , so the swords became admirable pieces of craftsmanship. The Japanese Katana, for example, is a very simple design. It is the simplicity, however, that makes it such an efficient weapon because it is made with such high technique and skill that its strength and durability are undeniable.
The Japanese Samurai evolved from a class of people who were originally guards at the castles and centers of government. They became masters of war and eventually became highly regarded in the society as a dominant class of respected people. They took such pride in their work as warriors that the disciplines of their practice became an ingrained quality of the culture. In fact, the reason that the martial arts have survived and enjoyed so much popularity even today is because of the great pride and admiration that the Samurai demanded.
The Samurai also demanded nothing but the best in their weapons. The development of the katana and its superior quality is a direct result of the strength of mentality of the Samurai class of people.
By the middle ages, sword-making became specialized in every region of the world. Every area was known for its special style and design. The Longswords of Europe, for example, and the Chinese Jian are just a few. Later on, in the latter part of the middle ages, swords were developed that we are more familiar with today including the Scottish ???, the Japanese katana and the European rapier. These swords had much more ornate designs incorporated into the functionality of the weapon.
Indeed, the sword has undergone an amazing evolution from simple dagger to long, sleek, strong and beautiful sword.
http://www.theslicingsword.com
RobR
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Rashford
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Tai Chi Sword Form 32 Yang Taiji Jian
Where can I get a reliable "combat ready" sword Jian?
The term "combat ready" I mean that can take a beating and keep going. Even I keep semi-custom.
I have some of the best for http://www.chinese-swords-guide.com/Real-swords.html sale if you're near Australia. Otherwise the same high quality swords can be purchased in the U.S.. There is a link at the bottom of the page. These swords are sharp though. They are real "Battle Ready" sword, so I would not be be used for a real fight with a human being. We use them to cut bottles plastic, bamboo, mats, etc. Go you are looking for something to argue with, the use of a replica of wood or find a recreation group that can show where to get a blunt sword. The more real than the sword, the armor again have to actually use it. Have a read through that site I gave you the link. Has a lot of good easy to read information on Chinese swords and swordsmanship.
